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This paper examines the role of digital training platforms in supporting SME sustainability transitions, focusing on the EU-funded STAGE project. Launched in June 2022, the project offers tailored training, assessments, advisory, and financial support to European industrial SMEs to improve environmental performance. The paper compares findings from the platform—analyzing SME engagement in assessments, training courses, and grant applications—with insights from a Rapid Literature Review on training platform impacts. Two research questions guide the analysis: How do digital training platforms facilitate SME engagement in sustainability transitions? What are the key enablers and challenges influencing SME participation? The findings compare real-world engagement with theoretical insights, contributing to understanding digital platforms as tools for driving SME sustainability. The paper concludes with practical recommendations, highlights three key takeaways - (1) financial incentives significantly boost SME engagement; (2) SMEs prioritize technology-driven improvements such as energy efficiency and AI; and (3) SMEs face challenges in integrating sustainability strategically, particularly in supply chain management and long-term planning - and suggests areas for future research.

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The Role of Digital Training Platforms in Facilitating the Sustainability Transitions of European SMEs: Insights from the EU-Funded Project “STAGE”

  • 会议论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年

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  • Serkan Eren,
  • Chibuikem Nwagwu,
  • Emrah Arica,
  • Eivind Reke

摘要

This paper examines the role of digital training platforms in supporting SME sustainability transitions, focusing on the EU-funded STAGE project. Launched in June 2022, the project offers tailored training, assessments, advisory, and financial support to European industrial SMEs to improve environmental performance. The paper compares findings from the platform—analyzing SME engagement in assessments, training courses, and grant applications—with insights from a Rapid Literature Review on training platform impacts. Two research questions guide the analysis: How do digital training platforms facilitate SME engagement in sustainability transitions? What are the key enablers and challenges influencing SME participation? The findings compare real-world engagement with theoretical insights, contributing to understanding digital platforms as tools for driving SME sustainability. The paper concludes with practical recommendations, highlights three key takeaways - (1) financial incentives significantly boost SME engagement; (2) SMEs prioritize technology-driven improvements such as energy efficiency and AI; and (3) SMEs face challenges in integrating sustainability strategically, particularly in supply chain management and long-term planning - and suggests areas for future research.